MFA Press Statement: Visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean to the Republic of the Philippines, 31 January to 2 February 2018

Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean is in Manila from 31 January to 2 February 2018.

Earlier today, DPM Teo called on Vice President Maria Leonor Leni Gerona Robredo. They reaffirmed the warm and longstanding ties between Singapore and the Philippines, underpinned by robust economic links and people-to-people relations. They exchanged views on socio-economic development including housing and education policies, and ways to promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the two countries.

DPM Teo had meetings with Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, as well as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Department of Interior and Local Government General (retd) Eduardo AAo. They updated the delegation on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City in Mindanao, and the security situation in the Philippines. Both sides also exchanged views on regional security matters including the terrorist threat posed by the Islamic State. They discussed ways to enhance the defence and security cooperation between Singapore and the Philippines. DPM Teo underscored Singapore’s commitment to work with the Philippines in bilateral and multilateral counter-terrorism efforts, including exchanging best practices on counter-radicalisation and religious rehabilitation.

DPM Teo also met former Philippine President Fidel Ramos, old friends and former counterparts, and key business leaders to discuss developments in the Philippines as well as regional and international issues.

DPM Teo had an early Lunar New Year lo hei celebration with about 100 Singaporeans and their families based in Manila.

DPM Teo and the delegation will visit New Clark City tomorrow and meet Singapore companies in Clark before returning to Singapore.